Promoted by Ricky Ponting in the test selections, Western Australian all-rounder Aaron Hardy has emerged as a multi-format star after a successful BBL season.
Hardie’s impressive form since being promoted to third place has been a key factor in Perth’s Scorchers winning the title once again.
The 24-year-old played again in his seven-wicket win over Hobart’s Hurricanes at Optus Stadium on Wednesday night, when from 62 he took the unbeaten ball for 90 and the scorer was on goal. drove off his 147 without difficulty.
A four-time champion, his Scorchers have put him at the top of the BBL rankings with his two games remaining, and he has only lost once at his home fort.
Hardy marks four and a half centuries since being named first drop to replace Marsh in his injured Mitchell. Mitchell Marsh has revealed on Fox’s broadcast of his cricket that he may have to consider handing over the third seed permanently.
The young gun has shown an ability to adapt his game across formats, having scored a remarkable 174 not out in last season’s drawn Sheffield Shield final to secure WA the title.
All-time great Ponting floated Hardie as a bolter for the Sydney Test against South Africa, and the towering right-hander who averages 45 with the bat in first-class cricket seems destined for higher honours.
That could include the IPL, with fellow West Australian fast-bowling allrounder Cameron Green recently sold at auction for $3.15 million – a record price for an Australian player.
Hardie did not nominate this season and is believed to be considering a return to county cricket which could place him in the sights of national selectors ahead of the Ashes series.
“I’ve put my name in the draft before but didn’t put my name in this year for various reasons,” Hardie told reporters after Wednesday night’s game. “Of course it’s silly to say no when you end with a number like that.
“I don’t want to be stuck in any format, I just want to be able to participate in all kinds of games. This all-around role takes a toll on Four Days Cricket, but I also love the challenge. ..I enjoy playing all three as much as I can.”
Hardie said he hasn’t played for the BBL since hurting his groin earlier this season, but he’s ready if needed, but given the Scorchers’ enviable depth, it’s unlikely Not likely.
Lance Morris won 21-2 against the Hurricanes after being called up by the Australian squad to tour India next month. Fast colleague Jhye Richardson is expected to return from a hamstring injury in time for the final.